Toffees midfielder Gareth Barry was the villain of the piece, not only losing his man at a corner to allow Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard to put the hosts in front, but then ploughing straight into Lukaku, who played no further part in the contest.

The striker was helped off the pitch by the Everton physio and goalkeeper Tim Howard, before being replaced by Steven Naismith.

Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge reacts after missing a penalty during their English Premier League soccer match against Everton at Anfield in Liverpool, northern England January 28, 2014. (Picture: Reuters)

Liverpool’s Luis Suarez celebrates after scoring a goal against Everton during their English Premier League soccer match at Anfield in Liverpool, northern England January 28, 2014. (Picture: Reuters)

Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge ( C) is congratulated by his team mates after scoring the second goal making the score 2-0 during their English Premier League soccer match at Anfield, Liverpool, Britain, 28 January 2014. (Picture: EPA)

Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard (C) celebrates after scoring a goal against Everton during their English Premier League soccer match at Anfield in Liverpool, northern England January 28, 2014. (Picture: Reuters)